Jennifer Semler, CPA
Director of Finance/CFO
Professional Overview
Jennifer Semler is an accomplished finance executive with over 17 years of experience driving financial strategy, operational excellence, and organizational transformation. As the Director of Finance/CFO for the Township of Bloomfield, she oversees all aspects of the finance function, providing strategic leadership and ensuring the municipality's long-term financial sustainability.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Director of Finance/CFO for the Township of Bloomfield, Jennifer is responsible for managing the township's $100+ million budget, overseeing financial reporting and compliance, and leading a team of finance professionals. She has implemented data-driven decision-making processes, streamlined financial operations, and spearheaded initiatives to enhance transparency and accountability.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Jennifer served as the Chief Financial Officer for the Township of Union, where she played a pivotal role in improving the municipality's fiscal position and optimizing resource allocation. She also held the position of Treasurer for the Union Township Board of Education, where she successfully navigated complex budgetary challenges and implemented cost-saving measures.
Jennifer's experience extends beyond the public sector, as she previously held finance roles at leading private-sector organizations, including Verizon and Bed Bath & Beyond. As an FP&A Transformation specialist at Verizon, she led the redesign of the company's planning and forecasting processes, driving greater agility and strategic alignment. Her tenure at Bed Bath & Beyond as a Manager of Financial Operations and Analysis showcased her expertise in financial analysis, process improvement, and business partnering.
Jennifer began her career in public accounting, serving as an Audit Supervisor at EisnerAmper LLP and an Audit Staff member at Ernst & Young, where she honed her technical skills and gained valuable experience in financial auditing and compliance.
Academic Background
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Rutgers University, where she graduated with honors. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and maintains a strong commitment to professional development and industry involvement.
Areas of Expertise
- Public sector finance and accounting
- Financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting
- Financial reporting and compliance
- Process improvement and operational optimization
- Data-driven decision-making and strategic advisory
- Team leadership and change management
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Jennifer has demonstrated a track record of driving positive financial and operational outcomes for the organizations she has served. Notable achievements include:
- Spearheading the implementation of a comprehensive financial forecasting model for the Township of Bloomfield, leading to a 20% improvement in budgeting accuracy.
- Restructuring the finance function at the Township of Union, resulting in a 15% reduction in operating expenses and enhanced financial visibility.
- Overseeing the successful transition of the Union Township Board of Education to a new accounting system, streamlining financial reporting and compliance.
- Developing and leading the FP&A Transformation initiative at Verizon, which enhanced the company's strategic planning capabilities and improved cross-functional collaboration.
Conclusion
With her extensive finance expertise, proven leadership abilities, and commitment to driving organizational excellence, Jennifer Semler is poised to continue making a lasting impact in the public sector. In her role as the Director of Finance/CFO for the Township of Bloomfield, she is dedicated to ensuring the municipality's long-term financial stability and strategic alignment.
